Political Party Leaders Strengthen Democratic Governance through BRIDGE Training in Lesotho

Political party leaders from across Lesotho have strengthened their knowledge and skills in political party governance, campaign finance and financial accountability following a four-day customised BRIDGE Political Parties and Candidates Modular Course held in Maseru from 22–25 June 2026.

The training, organised by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of Lesotho with support from the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), brought together Secretaries General, Treasurers and other representatives from registered political parties, alongside officials from the IEC, the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO) and civil society organisations.

A total of 44 participants, including 24 men and 20 women, divided into two groups on some sessions took part in the programme, which aimed to strengthen transparency, accountability and effective financial management within political parties while promoting compliance with Lesotho’s electoral legal framework.

Opening the workshop, IEC Commissioner Dr. Chelete Monyane challenged participants to reflect on their collective responsibility in strengthening democracy.

“As political parties, where are we and what are we doing?” he asked, emphasising the importance of responsible management of public resources, transparency and effective oversight in political party financing.

Representatives of the European Union Delegation to Lesotho and UNDP reaffirmed their commitment to supporting democratic governance and strengthening the institutional capacity of political parties and electoral stakeholders through continuous learning and professional development.

Delivered using the internationally recognised BRIDGE (Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections) methodology, the course encouraged active participation through practical exercises, group discussions, simulations and case studies that allowed participants to apply lessons directly to Lesotho’s political and electoral environment.

The workshop was facilitated by experienced BRIDGE-accredited facilitators Mrs. Rindai Chjipfunde Vava supported Workshop Facilitators Teboho Nalane and Monica Lephahamela, together with Train-the-Facilitator (TtF) Complete facilitators Kamohelo Chobokoane and Doris Lintsi. The second group was led by Tomsie Dhlamini supported by Workshop Facilitators Thato Moeti, Nthallo Letsela and TtF Complete Facilitators Mamonaheng Ramaema and Matheantoa Selebalo.

 Participants examined a broad range of topics, including political party financing, campaign finance regulation, financial accountability, legal and institutional frameworks, electoral dispute resolution and the risks posed by illicit political funding. Discussions also explored practical strategies for improving governance, transparency and compliance within political parties.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, IEC Chairperson Dr. John Maphephe described the programme as an important investment in Lesotho’s democratic future.

“This workshop is not simply a training programme; it is an investment in the future of Lesotho’s democracy,” he said. “The values of integrity, accountability, inclusion and respect for the rule of law must guide political parties not only during elections but throughout their daily operations.”

A key highlight of the programme was the accreditation of the Train-the-Facilitator (TtF) Complete participants as BRIDGE Workshop Facilitators. Their accreditation expands Lesotho’s national pool of certified facilitators, enabling the IEC to deliver future BRIDGE programmes locally and sustainably while strengthening institutional capacity.

The customised BRIDGE Political Parties and Candidates Modular Course reflects the continued partnership between the IEC, the European Union and UNDP in supporting democratic governance in Lesotho. By equipping political party leaders with practical knowledge and skills in governance, accountability and financial management, the programme contributes to stronger political institutions and more credible, transparent and inclusive electoral processes.

As Lesotho continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, initiatives such as this customised BRIDGE programme demonstrate the value of collaboration, capacity development and shared commitment to promoting good governance and public confidence in elections.